Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy, employing about half the workforce and comprising 99% of all businesses. Yet, their struggles are mounting. The Paychex Small Business Jobs Index posted a slight contraction in November 2024, the fourth dip in just five months. Labor market growth is evaporating, and weekly earnings growth has stagnated at a mere 2.84% year-over-year, which is essentially flat when adjusted for inflation.
Small businesses are showing clear signs of economic trouble—inventory reductions, a typical precursor to economic downturns. Instead of anticipating demand with increased inventories, businesses are tightening their belts. This trend is deeply concerning, as it often signals broader economic issues beneath the surface.
In addition to the economic slowdown, new regulations in 2024 are adding more strain. Small businesses now face increased costs to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act, and penalties for non-compliance can reach up to $10,000. Rent delinquencies have also spiked, with 43% of small business renters unable to pay rent in full or on time, a crisis not seen since the pandemic’s peak.
Add to this the looming recession, rising inflation, and supply chain issues, and it’s clear that small businesses are on the brink. These businesses are the lifeblood of the economy, but without urgent intervention, their struggles could lead to far-reaching consequences for the economy as a whole.
Paychex: small business jobs index posted a marginally contraction for Nov, only the 4th since Mar '21 w/ all being in the last 5 months as labor market growth evaporates; weekly earnings grew just 2.84% Y/Y, so essentially flat after adjusting for inflation: pic.twitter.com/4P6b7qLCsV
— E.J. Antoni, Ph.D. (@RealEJAntoni) December 4, 2024
2/ Small businesses are the backbone of the US economy
Their conditions often signals the overall health of the economy
— Bravos Research (@bravosresearch) November 19, 2024
4/ Small businesses account for 99% of all US businesses and employ about half the workforce
Their struggles signal broader economic challenges beneath the surface pic.twitter.com/avRhteEP5T
— Bravos Research (@bravosresearch) November 19, 2024
Sources:
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/u-small-business-job-growth-133000205.html
https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/small-businesses-saw-modest-growth-in-jobs-and-pay-in-november
https://rbj.net/2024/12/03/u-s-small-business-job-growth-rate-remained-steady-in-november/
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